Aditya-L1 mission: ISRO chief shares solar observation milestones and future space endeavours

The Aditya-L1 mission, launched on September 2, 2023, has reached a significant milestone. Isro Chief S. Somanath, speaking at the International Space Conference, shared the latest update on the spacecraft's progress.

Aditya-L1 mission’s spacecraft is currently positioned at Lagrange point 1, orbiting the Sun. Somanath mentioned that initial observations have begun, showcasing the commencement of data collection.

The meticulous planning of Aditya-L1's journey involved multiple orbits around Earth before reaching its target orbit on January 6, 2024. This precision is essential for studying the Sun with unparalleled accuracy.

Isro Chief S. Somanath emphasised that the Aditya-L1 mission is not only a national triumph but a global achievement, stating, "This is for the whole world, not for India alone," India Today reported. 

The Aditya-L1 mission aims to deepen our understanding of solar phenomena, such as the solar corona, photosphere, and the impact of solar winds and related radiation.

During its voyage, Aditya-L1's instruments were calibrated, showcasing its healthy condition. The spacecraft has sent back X-ray images and particle counts, providing valuable insights.

ISRO’s commitment to precision was evident as Aditya-L1 mission required several corrections for its exact placement in the halo orbit around the L1 point. This precision prevented the satellite from drifting off course.

Looking ahead, Somanath highlighted ISRO's ambitious plans, with the Gaganyaan program being a top priority in 2024. The agency aims for a manned mission by 2025 and envisions an Indian astronaut landing on the Moon by 2040.